Johari Noelle is an up-and-coming vocalist from Chicago who makes warm and richly evocative contemporary soul. Her newest EP, Things You Can't Say Out Loud, will be out in May but for now she's sharing "Show Me", one of the highlights of the release.
The track recalls for me stuff from Syd and The Internet, though Johari has that ability to easily hit some upper ranges with real force and power just like Beyonce does. On this cut, Johari uses her voice naturally, and the overall effect is a fantastic one where both vocals and instrumentation seem all intertwined wonderfully. This is a song with subtle and effective production from Matt Hennessy of VSOP Studios, and, obviously, an affecting vocal performance at its center. One listen and you can see how Johari took inspiration from Janet Jackson, and how being mentored by Kelly Rowland paid off.
Johari Noelle's new EP Things You Can't Say Out Loud will be out next month. For now, follow her via her official Facebook page, or her official website.
[Photo: James McCarter]